Day: June 15, 2011

Vacuum Tube Radios for Preppers

I often have SurvivalBlog readers write to ask me about vacuum tube technology and its robustness in EMP and CME events, and which antique multi-band vacuum tube radios to look for. I’m also asked how to determine which models can be run on both AC and DC power. To begin, vacuum tubes are inherently “hard” to EMP and CME but not invulnerable. They are also relatively safe from lightning strikes–but again not invulnerable. Modern integrated circuits are at the opposite end of the scale for vulnerability. In essence, the smaller gates in a microcircuit, the greater its vulnerability. In recent …


Letter Re: Recommendations on M1 Garand Rifles

Dear Mr. Rawles,   I enjoyed R.W.L.’s recent post, “Prioritizing My Prepping”, and noted the choice of the venerable M1 Garand as the MBR of choice. Though the M1 is a terrific choice for this role (“the finest battle implement ever devised” per Gen. Patton), those new to the rifle should keep a couple of critical things in mind when deciding to acquire their very useful piece of history.   Standardization of ammo throughout one’s battery can be a beneficial goal, but be aware that all .30-06 is not equal when it comes to the Garand. The M1’s gas system is …


Economics and Investing:

Loyal contributor C.D.V. sent this: US Housing Crisis Is Now Worse Than Great Depression Sovereign Man asks: What are the Social Implications of Economic Collapse? (Thanks to James C. for the link.) Nancy N. sent this: Roubini Says “Perfect Storm” May Clobber Global Economy. I love hearing mainstream market analysts go wild talking gloom and doom. C.D.V. sent this: Gold to Reach $5,000 Due to Supply Shortage: Report An exhaustive report by Standard Chartered predicts that gold will more than triple to $5,000 an ounce because of a lack of supply, not just because of a surge in demand that …


Odds ‘n Sods:

Craig in Montana sent me a reminder that there is a Flathead Preparedness Expo scheduled for Saturday, June 18, 2011, in Kalispell, Montana. Guest speakers will include Pastor Chuck Baldwin, Sheriff Richard Mack, and Stewart Rhodes.    o o o An anonymous reader sent a link to photos of construction of a 2,300 square foot bunker built under a garage. The fancy trim was overkill, but this is a very instructive series of photos.    o o o I’ve just updated the American Redoubt page with links to Jewish Chabad congregations in Bozeman, Montana (The Shul of Bozeman) and Jackson, …